It’s Easter! A day we celebrate the joy of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Because of the resurrection, I firmly believe in God’s power to redeem and transform the dark and difficult places in our lives – even death – and bring Light and new life, not in some far-off time and place, but abundant life in the here and now.

Today I am grateful for the life that has been given to me through Jesus Christ and for the opportunity for more abundant living since having my gastric bypass. Today is the two-month anniversary of my surgery. Today I get to expand my menu. For the last two months I have been primarily nourished by high protein, low-fat and low-carb foods and non-carbonated, decaffeinated, and no- or low-calorie beverages. I honestly have rarely felt hunger or cravings for other foods, but I am excited that today I get to add soft, cooked vegetables. It’s Easter and I can have green bean casserole! Talk about a celebration!

In the two months since my surgery, I have SHED 49 pounds, bringing the total to 76 pounds shed since enrolling in the Cleveland Clinic’s bariatric program. Below are some before and after pictures, as well as a fun picture from my church’s Easter Egg Hunt yesterday.

Easter blessings to all. May you experience the joy of the resurrection today!